Upgrading my FoxAlien Masuter Pro with a Harbor Freight Bauer Router!

[@tampabaybutterfly]

Hey gang. I know there's been some confusion about the Bauer router, whether it fits in the provided 65mm clamp or if it requires the 69mm clamp, as he mentions at 1:47, but I just received a Bauer Model 19121E-B, which I'll be installing on a new Masuter Pro this weekend, and I can confirm that it fits like a glove in the 65mm. Also be aware, if you do need to purchase a 69mm clamp for some other type of router, the only one currently available from FoxAlien is for the 4040-XE, but I contacted FoxAlien and asked them about it and they said it will also fit on the Masuter Pro, so it sounds like the bolt spacing is a perfect match, in case you need or want to install a router with a 69mm shaft. Happy CNC-ing!

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I have no clue what my brain was thinking when I said 69mm and didn’t catch it in editing! Thanks for the comment! I’m going to PIN it!!!

[@tampabaybutterfly]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman You're welcome! Hopefully, it'll clear up any confusion folks might have. And thanks for the video! I built mine yesterday and got it set up in the shop today.

[@jamewoods3605]

Thanks for sharing. Showing issues or mistakes and taking action in the videos shows character. No one is perfect. Excellent job. Guess I'm heading to Harbor Freight.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I’m definitely not perfect!!! LoL. Thanks for watching!

[@5thuniverse]

Just purchased my FoxAlien CNC machine and love all your videos

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Awesome!!! I’m on vacation for a couple weeks but plan on lots more upon my return!

[@aborntexan]

Excellent video. I'm just beginning to build my own CNC router and was considering using this router since it's only $45. I think I will go for it!

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

It’s been really good to me! You can also upgrade a bit to the Hercules for $79! Damn near a disposable price point for us CNCers!

[@natechan2586]

Really a cool project!

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Thanks so much!!! Lots more CNC videos coming soon!

[@J87513]

Just got a WM3020 from Fox Alien. Used it few times and seems to be really good for hobby usage, which is what I’m using it for. The spindle/router that is comes with is a joke so definitely get one from Harbor Freight or Makita etc. And also I highly recommend getting the little offline controller.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

100% agree with the small spindle! It’s very weak and should be upgraded ASAP! Other than that….. Happy CNCing!!! Thanks for watching!!!

[@LanceMcGrew]

Same Bauer router and I ended up returning because the collet would not clamp on 1/4" shanks. Makita RT0701C is what I ended up with.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Did you get a Smart Relay to control your router yet? If not I highly recommend it!

[@eagle2D2]

How does the Makita work? I just picked one up today.

[@icywalrus4906]

Another vid with this router would be cool! Thinking about copying your set up.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Will do! Many more to come! I just upgraded the bed to the 4080 extension kit and it’s epic! Stay tuned. Been sick and unable to post!

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Were you able to upgrade your Motor yet? If so... what did you do and how do you like it!?

[@icywalrus4906]

Yeah thing is working great thanks to your vid. Right now cutting at speed 4, feed rate 40 in/m, plunge rate 20 in/m, depth per pass 0.08 in. Need a dust shoe before I can do more projects!

[@fakeingirs]

Two things. One: Put electrical tape on the end of the wire of your old spindle or just remove the wire. Two: Get a cardboard box and sit you machine in it. Keep the top and open and the sides high enough that the dust stays with your machine then vacuum it out.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Great tips! I’ll definitely be keeping the wires just in case I want to use the smaller spindle but I’ll cover connections JIC! Thanks for watching!

[@arbjful]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsmanor maybe put the machine inside an enclosure…the way that bit came out of the collet was really scary..

[@jmexteriorcleaningsolutions]

💪😎 love the upgrade!

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Thanks so much! Waaay better then the small motor that it came with!!!

[@noiam4me]

Thanks, have had my master pro for a week and have had trouble. You helped me a bunch so far, First with the CA glue option (I’ve been buying the expansive shit) Second with the bolts for the larger motor holder, (removing the washer) haha, Do you zero out your z axis with the block before you sent it to cut. Thanks again keep up the great work. You speak very well, some people have a tendency to say “um” all the time.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Thanks so much!!! I use the Z block every time I zero out a project yes. Thanks again and I have more videos coming out soon!!!

[@Reviews-Tidbits]

The gantry flexed along with the belts that why it didn’t break.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

👍👍👍👍

[@Woodchuckk]

Hey Crawlspace, Question, trying to get an idea for a base feed and depth rating for the bauer router on standard .75" plywood. Can you tell me what your running at for a 1/4 end mill? I'm not looking to max anything out, just looking to get a base line and then adjust from there. Thanks!

[@iagmr]

Wish I'd seen this BEFORE I went to HF and bought the Hercules. It just doesn't fit in the 65mm spindle holder. Back to HF I go, guess I'm going to save some $$ too

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

LoL. Just another reason to go back! Pick up some clamps while your there! Can never have too many clamps! That’s what I tell myself anyway! LoL

[@madsteam77]

Any chance you can share your feed, plunge, and depth starting points. Thanks

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Lots of videos coming soon! Might go to 2 videos a week soon too!

[@adventureskulldraws]

I just bought one so that would be helpful for me! subbed@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman

[@grandmastermicochero]

i tried to add my new Bauer 65mm router to my 65mm collar that came with the machine, it wouldn't tighten up and I snapped the damn aluminum bolts that come with the machine, cheap as hell bolts ill tell you that, had to drill the snapped off bolts and rethread the darn thing a real PIA! it would be nice if they gave you a sleeve or something to help with this problem,, I cant see why yours tightened up when we were both using the exact same equipment,

[@williamtruax3212]

Nice job on the video. I've been looking into getting the Fox Alien but I was going to go straight to the router for a spindle, I was curious about the stepper motors being strong enough for the extra weight of the router. Did you notice any difference in the movement of the gantry or the z axis.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Thanks so much! I really love my machine! So much I have a second one that I’m going to be doing a full live stream unboxing and build on the 27th of May! Gong to be around 7 or 8pm - ????. I have zero issues with the motors handing the Z axis at all! I plan on getting a laser for the smaller setup. Should be a fun night! Stop by!

[@billieb]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman This implies you can put a laser on the cnc, can you put a router on a laser? I have a xtool d1pro I was thinking of.

[@grandmastermicochero]

hey Crawlspace man, were you able to find any other size collects, say an 1/8 in collett because I can only find the 1/4 in that comes with the machine? Help us woodworking guys out :)

[@grandmastermicochero]

i guess i ll have to use the 1/4 shaft with the 1/8 inch cutters yes?

[@salty_angler1285]

My Masuter Pro arrives. today, I also purchased the same router. Would you suggest starting off with the original motor that comes with the FA before installing the Bauer? Planning on starting assembly today. Thanks

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

It’s a tough call. I probably would just for a week or so to get use to the tool and only for that reason! Once you actually run a more powerful router you’ll appreciate the difference! Just use the 60w motor on some MDF and Soft pine for a few test runs.

[@salty_angler1285]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman I lasted a day, lol.. what a difference!!

[@justinstewart3667]

Question: what did you for the Z motor/spindle speed? When I try to run mine I get an error because it tries to turn on the motor?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Set it Manual. That way it doesn’t try to turn in a spindle

[@bencarp]

The XE-Pro didn't come with additional bolts for the other mounts. I have the 4 M5 55mm bolts for the original mount. What size bolt do these other mounts require? M5 12mm?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

They’re not reused for the other mount!? 🤔

[@bencarp]

@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman no. The 55mm are super long and go in from the front. The other mounts are at the back. I have the 1 extra 12mm they provided. It looks like it should work. But wanted to ask.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

@@bencarp let me look when I get down to the shop!

[@bencarp]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman I sent you some photos for a better understanding. I grabbed some 12mm and 16mm and will give them a try this evening.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

@@bencarp dang I forgot! I’m at work all day today so I might not be able to get to it until tomorrow morning! I’ll definitely get back to you!!

[@workinghand5768]

Honest video, thanks. How long to cut out that circle?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I get that a lot honestly. I thank you for the comment and question. I need to do a “Real Time” video on certain cuts! This circle took about 2 minutes.

[@DouglasAdams-x4t]

Where did the bigger holder bracket come from??

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

It comes with the Masuter Pro kit. It’s a 65mm clamp. You can order or contact FoxAlien if you need one!

[@mtz3843]

great vid, question, how long do you think the test run take you think?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Awesome and thank you!!! So the circle didn’t take that long. Probably about 8-10 minutes. I may do a “Long Real-time video” in the very near future! Stay tuned!

[@julianlowes2444]

ThankYou Broooooo🤟

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Your welcome!!!

[@maquelwrigley6660]

Newbie here Can this be mounted on risers for thicker pieces of wood?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

So it has a fixed base unlike a laser which basically has no bottom. Long story short “No”. There are folks on the FoxAlien Facebook group who made custom extensions but that’s a whole other story. I’m thinking about downloading the files they posted and testing them out as a video. Hope that helped you out some!

[@stephenenglebright]

Want to replace my 400 watt router that came with my FA 4040XE with offline controller. Just to be sure, is the Bauer router 65mm or 69mm so I can be certain to order that correct replacement from FA? Thanks, man. Nice channel as well. I subscribed and will be watching!

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Hey Steve! Thanks for the support! The larger clamp that comes with the Masuter kit is 65mm and the Bauer Router fits like a glove! I’m not 100% what the 4040XE comes with but I’d say if it’s a 65mm clamp your good to go!

[@stephenenglebright]

Thanks for you fast reply. The 4040XE came with the clamp that fits the 400 watt router, so I will have to order a new clamp. Just wanted to make sure I ordered the correct clamp. Appreciate it!

[@madsteam77]

Hey man thanks for the videos. I’m going to order this machine. I’m starting on small little stuff out of cedar pickets. What bits would you recommend? I have a makita router already and plan to install it after I get familiar with the software and machine. I’m trying to avoid buying the set you have, if I’m not going to stick with the 1/8th bits. Thanks!

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

FoxAlien sells a set available on Amazon w 1/4” shank that’s a great starter set! It runs $90 and comes with 5 different bits. I have some links in the description of some of my videos that may help you out! But here is the link to the set I’m talking about…. amzn.to/45ciZMM

[@DouglasSchafer-h1w]

What collet brand fits this router to step down to 1/8" shank?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

@@DouglasSchafer-h1w amzn.to/3sGG6Bn

[@LabrysStoryteller]

Do run the Akita setting for the Bauer router?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Gotta be honest…. I don’t know what Akita setting means! LoL

[@joehanika]

Did you see a noticeable difference from your 60w to the router in time? I have the 60 and I am looking between this router and a 1.5 kw spindle...

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Oh heck ya!! You can cut deeper and at a faster rate! I HIGHLY Recommend this upgrade!

[@NewBegginingsWoodworks.]

Hey man could u send me a link where I can order the 69mm spindle holder?

[@bill40bates]

Looking to get one of these CNC’s. It looks like a lot of debris gets thrown onto the wheels and rails? Have you had that effect your cuts?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I clean mine REGULARLY! I do sometimes put up a homemade rail cover and it helps. Just got a dust shoe but haven’t used it yet. Honestly no issues since I do my regular maintenance. Thanks for watching!!

[@ckamani81]

​@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman what dust shoe did you get that fit the Harbor freight router.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

The one from FoxAlien. It has adapter rings

[@victorscasas1193]

what program do you use from your laptop to CNC?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Easel

[@elizabeththrockmorton9318]

Did you say that was a 1/4" bit? Can you link to that? I purchased the 1/8" bits that you linked.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

So almost all “Palm Routers” that will fin in the unit will all take 1/4” shank bits. If you purchased smaller 1/8” bits you’ll need an adapter for them. Check out this link and you can buy them to make the 1/8” into 1/4”. amzn.to/3NM5egV

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Hope that helps! If ya have any questions…. Holla my way!

[@elizabeththrockmorton9318]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman Thank you so much!

[@binky1135]

YOOOOO. Did you say its a 69mm? So you have to buy the separate router holder from Fox Alien/Amazon? Mine came with a 52mm and 65mm only.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Holy cow! I have to go back and listen to what I said! I can tell you this… what comes with the FA will work with the Bauer Router for sure. So if I gave the wrong numbers verbally you do not have to purchase a different one if you plan on upgrading!

[@mikehelton697]

What feed/plunge rates are you using? Just got that router and am working with a 1/4” end mill, but I’m brand new to CNC work…

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I use easel and it’s pretty good with settings. I usually cut at at 1-2mm deep cut at 30,000rpms so I can move at a decent rate. Always start slow and build up from there.

[@nomadickeyz7477]

if you had the 300w would you have still upgraded? mine will be in tomorrow and it comes with the 300w

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I’m not sure honestly but if I had to say yes or no….. I’d say yes! The “Hand Routet” (whichever you go with) has an RPM of 30,000 and about as powerful as you can go. Plus…. It’s cheaper to replace if it burns out. Join my Discord if you wanna post photos there!

[@TheBinklemNetwork]

If you get the 300w spindle, make sure you get a tachometer as well! The 300w spindle speed is controlled manually. Just received my tachometer from reed instruments (a used r7050) but I haven't yet USED the 300w due to the prior inability to measure spindle speed. What are your thoughts of the unit?

[@tuckerlangford4505]

What dust collection do you use for the bauer router upgrade? I tried the dust boot but it keeps falling off cuz of the magnets i think.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

The dust show connects to the spindle via a c clamp style. The magnet should only hold the bottom part. I use the HSF-800 by FoxAlien. I’m wondering if the dust boot isn’t attached correctly. 🤔

[@tuckerlangford4505]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman I’ve got the fox alien masuter pro

[@egipciton]

Hey , any link to buy it please ?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

amzn.to/3VkRVsP Buy this from Nhmolabs! I have 2 and they work great!!!

[@pec0309]

How do you Z-probe it?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

There are multiple ways… via the Offline Controller or Easel. In easel you have to have that option turned ON so it pops up while setting the cut. Hope they helps!

[@pec0309]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman I use easel. do I probe it normally or, what is the option you mention?

[@pec0309]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman I am getting the Bauer router but just want to make sure I don't damage anything.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

@@pec0309 you won’t damage anything. I might do a quick video on probing but I have so many videos in line it may take a while.

[@pec0309]

@@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman I really appreciate your responses, really like your shop also. I am using your tape system and buying the Bauer router for fathers day. Thank you again.

[@jaysimon6575]

You should count how many times you say "GO AHEAD"

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I might just go ahead and do that!!! Thanks for watching!!!

[@ambitiouzflow7287]

Can it hold 1” bit?

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

So I use a 1/4” shank 1/8” cut bit. Here is the link. amzn.to/3GIuxxJ

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I did purchase a 1/4" Shank 1" Flattening bit but you have to make sure your settings on your design program is aware. Works great! Here is the one I bought...... amzn.to/42rqVIw

[@upuzunsacl7418]

Not my profession but i made a cnc. i see detail always makes problem. to much dust on wheels and belt. machine looks solid but router bit distance veri far from gantry and its makes elastic move. but good machine. also i have makita router and i use 2000mm/min at 22000rpm(4) on olive wood which is most hardest wood. My machine is not complete for now but i like to improve details slowly step by step with my mistakes :) but i always use 2 bolt tightening wrench :) have fun.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

I now use a vac which drastically reduces dust. Before I would clean between every cut to reduce unnecessary build up. So far no issues and love it! Thanks for commenting and watching!!!

[@billieb]

Wow. so many questions. If the more powerful router is better, why doesn't it come with one. Will the bigger router shorten the life of the machine? Why did you choose Masuter over Gimentsu (spelling?) I am still researching and my choice is down to those two. On the tape/glue, do you use that on your larger pieces of wood? I have only seen you cut small ones.

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Hey Billie and thanks for watching! So honestly the smaller motor it comes with isn’t terrible but it doesn’t cut as fast and deep as an upgraded Palm router. If you plan on doing small items it’s not a huge deal but it’s nice to have the power option. As far as the tape/glue I use that “hold down” process 100% of the time no matter how big or small. It is an expense you have to figure into the cost. I honestly chose the Masuter Pro because of cost and it’s appearance! Sometimes you just have to pick one and that’s the one I chose. I’m glad I did because of the support and Team @FoxAlien

[@Jmunoz1675]

😉 If Disney asks he makes Nickey heads... 🤫

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

🤣🤣🤣. Just a couple circles! Nothing to see here!!

[@cherokeevapor8480]

I have liked your videos in the past but this is depressing such a waste of money for you can get a small Long Mill cnc for around 1200 and have a much better machine that will last a very long time

[@TheCrawlspaceCraftsman]

Heya @cherokeevapor8480! Thanks so much for the comment and I really appreciate your support! I woke up to it this morning and checked out the CNC machine you mentioned. As I'm sure that machine is great... I really can't say enough how great my FA Master Pro is! I also can't say honestly how long mine will last because I have only had for about 4 months but I can say its super well built and I feel if I take care of it .... it will last for years to come! As far as the price goes... the Longmill is $1,279 for a 14"x30" and the FA 4040 with and additional expansion kit (spoiler alert... video coming soon) would be $1,028 with a cutting space of 15.5"x31.5". I didn't see if LM offered an offline controller or not as I couldn't find one as an add-on. Either way... I deff value your feedback and hope you follow for more videos! Last question.... Do you use a CNC!? I created a discord if you ever want to chat CNC talk! Thanks again for watching!

[@joehanika]

These machines are pretty good for half the price. Hell, if you are going to spend 1200, why not go and get the Shapeoko? This one is cheap if you are just getting into the hobby or on a limited budget, upgradeable, easy assembly, good support systems out there if you need help. I have had mine going on 6 months. Nothing in my 6 months says it wont last a "very long time."